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Gadwall
Anas strepera

Dabbling Ducks
Waterfowl Family (Anatidae)

Size: Length: 37 cm Wingspan: 90 cm

Description: This occasional visitor may be seen mixing with flocks of pintails or widgeons. Look for a drab brown duck with few markings. The male has black tail covers. The speculum, visible, from the side when swimming and from above when flying, has a patch of rust visible in front of a patch of white . The rust and white speculum is a distinctive identifier for both sexes when flying. The female is without significant markings, with the exception of the white and rust coloured speculum. Unlike most dabbling ducks, the gadwall will occasionally dive.

Similar Species:

Range:

Habitat:

Diet: They feed primarily on pond vegetation and aquatic insects. They will also munch on waste grain during migrations.

Nesting: The plain nest is on the ground, often taking advantage of a small island. It is usually on dry ground, and is lined with down. The creamy, white eggs hatch in 28 days.

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